He’s protecting women’s sports.
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., defended the passage of the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, emphasizing that gender distinctions are rooted in both Scripture and nature. During a press conference, he stated that men and women are biologically distinct, a belief he connected to the biblical account of creation in Genesis, where it is written, “Male and female He made them.”
The bill, which passed the Republican-majority House with a 218-206 vote, aims to prevent trans women (biological males who identify as women) from competing in women’s sports. Specifically, it would make it illegal for any educational institution receiving federal funding to allow a male athlete to participate in women’s or girls’ athletic events. The legislation had been introduced previously but failed to advance in the Democrat-controlled Senate. This time, however, two House Democrats, Reps. Henry Cuellar and Vicente Gonzalez from Texas, joined Republicans in supporting the bill.
The bill’s passage is part of a broader effort, led by figures like President-elect Donald Trump, to secure protections for women in sports. Trump had previously promised to push for a law that would bar trans-identified males from competing in women’s sports if elected. Although the bill faces obstacles in the Senate, where 60 votes are typically required, it has strong backing from the Republican-controlled House and executive branch.
The debate over the legislation comes amid growing concern over the participation of trans women in women’s sports, with cases like that of Lia Thomas, a trans swimmer who broke records in women’s collegiate swimming, drawing attention. Critics argue that biological differences between men and women give trans women an unfair advantage, as evidenced by policies like those from USA Powerlifting, which restricts participation based on biological sex rather than gender identity.
Kristen Waggoner from the Alliance Defending Freedom praised the bill’s passage, asserting that allowing trans women to compete against biological females undermines fair competition and opportunities for female athletes. With 27 states having already enacted similar laws, supporters of the bill urge the Senate to act quickly and pass the legislation to protect women’s sports nationwide.